English Language
Head of Department: Ms H Wimbush
Awarding Body: AQA
Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 5 or above in English Language
Person specification: Our main responsibilities are enthusiasm, co-operation, participation, preparation and dedication. English is a challenging option; ability and commitment are essential for success.
Course Description
You will develop a clearer understanding of the English language – which is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world today – by studying its structures and functions, its developments and variations. You will also develop awareness of how language is connected with other aspects of society, through technology, power and culture.
During the course, you will consider how we learn to speak and write and how language has changed over the centuries and continues to change and create new words while aso learning how to collect language data and how to analyse, interpret and evaluate it.
The A-level qualification is a two-year course which consists of two examinations and two pieces of coursework.
- Paper 1 You are examined on your ability to analyse texts in detail and your understanding of how children acquire language.
- Paper 2 You are examined on your understanding of language diversity, language change over time, attitudes towards language use and your ability to write an article offering opinion about language use.
- Coursework You will complete a language investigation of your choice and a piece of original writing, again, of your choice.
Progression
Further study: Previous students have gone on to study courses such as English Language, Linguistics, Law, Football Journalism and Fashion Design. The transferable skills learned on this course mean the possibilities are endless!
Careers: The study of English Language combines well with many other subjects and is a good basis for careers in Education, Media, Journalism, Law, Business and many others.